Technology and personalization have put individuals in control of their own health and wellness. Mobile apps allow users to chart their food and exercise rates. Telemedicine allows them to visit a doctor from wherever, practically whenever. Flourishing food delivery sources can bring the fresh ingredients for the evening’s dinner straight to doorsteps across the nation. Despite all of these beneficial advances, however, obesity is a stagnant issue in the southern states – proving that the battle of the bulge goes far beyond failed new year’s resolutions.

Kentucky-based Senior Regional Epidemiologist Kristy M. Bolen listed the risks that come with obesity including heart disease, stroke, joint issues, and the largest, diabetes.

“We have some of the highest rates in the people in diabetes in the nation and the state,” said Bolen.

Rated one of 2016’s top five most obese states by WalletHub, Kentucky boasts an alarming 34.6 percent of obese adults, according to stateofobesity.org. Some of the state’s counties have managed to exceed that number with Boyd at 39 percent, Carter at 42 percent, Greenup at 35 percent and Lawrence County holding the highest among the group at 46 percent according to kentuckyhealthfacts.org.

Mississippi, Louisiana, Arkansas and Tennessee round out the top five of the 2016 list with others like Alabama, Texas, Indiana, Georgia, rounding out the top 25.

Bolen explained why obesity is such a prominent issue, citing lack of physical activity and poor food options. It is easier for many to go to a drive-thru at a fast food restaurant versus preparing a healthy meal, she said.

Bolen also referred to the southern food cuisine that many are drawn to whip up when they do decide to cook.

Bolen has, however, seen some progress in the area.

“I’ve been doing this job for almost 14 years. Obesity is an issue we have been talking about for a long time in the area. I think we are making strides to make changes, but those changes take time,” she said, referring to different health committees that incorporate the efforts of area hospitals.

Nationally, efforts like the Campaign to End Obesity and Let’s Move, the initiative developed by First Lady Michelle Obama during her time in the White House, have pushed better living and eating while offering numerous resources to help Americans young and old live healthier lives.

Bolen’s suggestions for overcoming obesity include the obvious exercise and healthier food options. She explained that it does not require a hardy devotion, but just subtle changes like taking a walk for 30 minutes four to five days a week and swapping out poor food choices for fruits or vegetables can cause improvements.

 “Over time you’ll see some differences,” she said.

While small changes are effective, many have decided to fully commit to a weight loss journey as a resolution for 2017.

Missy Griffith, membership and marketing director at a Kentucky YMCA location, said membership numbers have increased by at least 300 to 400.

“It always goes up for the New Year,” she said.

Griffith also said that the staff in the fitness and health centers are available for any newcomers with questions about working out and that personal trainers are available for an additional cost for one-on-one help.

Resolutions aside, experts maintain that consistency and strength in developing sustaining health choices related to diet, exercise and weight management are what individuals dedicated to fighting obesity should make their prime focus in 2017 and beyond.  

The Ashland, Kentucky Daily Independent contributed details to this story.